General Description | Lathyrus vernus or Spring Pea is a herbaceous perennial with smooth, acuminate leaves and flowers in shades of pink. |
Landscape | Makes a good border plant for shady locations. Appropriate for natural, cottage and woodland gardens. Not a climber. |
Cultivation | Grow in part to full shade, in average, well-drained soil. Takes some time to establish. Intolerant of root disturbance and full sun. After flowering, leaves usually die down. |
Pests | No serious pests or diseases of note. |
Leaf Description | Bright green, acuminate (tapering to a long point), 7.5 cm long, smooth with longitudinal venation, even pinnate: 2 - 3 pairs arranged in rows with two at the tip. There are no tendrils. |
Flower Description | Typically pea-like, reddish-purple with red veins, maturing to a violet-blue, 2 cm long, 5 - 8 in axillary racemes. |